HC Deb 27 November 1911 vol 32 cc17-8
Mr. O'GRADY

asked the Postmaster-General whether he was aware that the Peel Connor Telephone Works, Limited, Manchester, had during the time that they were carrying out a Government contract, reduced the piecework prices of girls on certain portions of the contract from 10s. 6d. to 7s. 6d.; whether he was aware that a strike ensued as a consequence; and, if so, could he state whether the firm, having tendered for a Government contract on a definite price, was entitled thereafter to the advantage arising from their action in reducing wages?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I am aware that this company have made certain alterations in their piecework prices, with the consequence that some of their staff of girls have struck work. There is no recognised district rate for the work on which the girls were engaged; and I am concerned with the piecework prices fixed by the company only so far as these prices would affect the actual earnings of the workers. The matter has been specially investigated by my inspecting officer; and in view of his report I am not satisfied that the new prices would result in a reduction of wages, or that they are inconsistent with the Fair-Wages Clause. The girls who struck work did so before the new rates could be given a trial. I am informed by the employers that some who remained at work are earning higher wages than under the old rates.

Mr. O'GRADY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that there has been a distinct reduction of wages from 10s. 6d. to 7s. 6d., and that the average wage of the girls on this kind of work comes out at 5s. or 6s. a week?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I am not aware of that. I know there has been a reduction. The employers contend that the time rate earned by the girls was not in proper proportion to the piece work rate. It is also asserted that the girls who remained at work are now able to earn more than before the new rates were introduced.

Mr. O'GRADY

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept a statement from the girls' side as well as from the firm's side?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

If the hon. Member gives me further information I will have further inquiry made.